Apr 27, 2026 12:43 PM
A new experiment in China showed drones could one day be recharged mid-air using microwave energy transmitted from the ground.
A new experiment in China showed drones could one day be recharged mid-air using microwave energy transmitted from the ground.
During the trial, a car-mounted emitter successfully beamed energy to an antenna array installed beneath a fixed-wing drone, transferring power without physical connections.
The system enabled the unmanned aircraft to remain airborne for up to 3.1 hours at an altitude of 15 meters (49 feet).
Read the full story on NextGen Defense: China Explores Mid-Flight Drone Recharging Using Microwave Beams
China•Chinese People’s Liberation Army•autonomous systems•Aerial refueling drone•autonomous aerial vehicle•aerial refueling•air refueling•aerial refuelling aircraft
Comments
Powered by RoundtableBuilt on infrastructure designed for real-time media. Learn more at RTB.io.© Roundtable 2026. By using this site you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy